House Judiciary Committee Advances FACE Act Repeal Bill Targeting Pro-Life Activists

The U.S. House Judiciary Committee has advanced the FACE Act Repeal Act, introduced by Rep. Chip Roy, aiming to repeal the 1994 Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, which has been criticized for disproportionately targeting peaceful pro-life activists under the Biden administration. While originally intended to prevent violence at both abortion clinics and pregnancy centers, the law has been weaponized, resulting in arrests and convictions of pro-life individuals who peacefully protest or pray outside abortion facilities, with little enforcement against violence toward pro-life centers. President Trump pardoned many of these activists and directed prosecutors to limit enforcement of the law, describing Biden's approach as an example of law weaponization. Advocates argue that existing state and federal laws already address violence, making the FACE Act redundant and unjust in its current application. The repeal effort reflects concerns that unless the law is removed, future administrations could continue to criminalize peaceful pro-life advocacy while ignoring attacks on pro-life organizations. Supporters emphasize the importance of protecting free speech and allowing peaceful protests without fear of prosecution or imprisonment.